Former India batter Ajinkya Rahane has called on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to give Rohit Sharma clarity over his ODI future, backing the veteran opener to feature in India's plans for the 2027 World Cup. Rahane believes India's preparations for the tournament should not be repeatedly disrupted by speculation over whether Rohit will be selected.
Rohit's place in India's ODI setup has continued to attract attention despite his presence in the team's plans and his return to form at Lord's. Speaking during an Idea Exchange interview, Rahane said Rohit's future should not be evaluated on a series-by-series basis.
“I think it is important to tell Rohit Sharma he is going to play the 2027 ODI World Cup,” Rahane said. “Just look at his contribution over several years. It has been amazing. You need the experience of such a player at a World Cup.”
Rahane argued that the selectors need to consider the bigger picture when assessing a player of Rohit's stature, particularly given the value of experience in high-pressure World Cup matches.
“There should be no discussions around it. You can't look at it series by series because he is such a big player,” he added.
Questions over Rohit's ODI career intensified after reports suggested that the England series could be his final appearance in the format. However, he responded with a spectacular 138 off 110 balls at Lord's.
The innings came after scores of 11 and 26 in the opening two matches and once again highlighted the difference between a player's long-term value and a short period of inconsistent form. Rohit remains part of India's squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, beginning October 19.
RAHANE BACKS KOHLI TOO
Rahane extended the same support to Virat Kohli, arguing that the former India captain should also be given the backing required to continue towards the 2027 World Cup.
“We should let them play freely. Everyone gets to that stage in their careers, but seniors also like it when the captain and the team management back them. Let them just play till the 2027 World Cup,” he said.
The former batter also pointed out that form naturally fluctuates throughout a cricketer's career, making it unfair to make broad judgments based on a small number of matches.
“Cricket is a game of rhythm, whether you are a youngster or an experienced player. There is no need to talk about his quality. There should be no debate. If he wants to play the 2027 World Cup, he should play,” Rahane said.
ROHIT'S EXPERIENCE VS INDIA'S NEXT GENERATION
Rahane's comments come as India continues to consider its ODI transition. Rohit will be approaching 40 by the time the 2027 World Cup begins, while the team management is also assessing younger alternatives for the future.
However, Rohit's record and ability to produce match-winning performances remain significant factors. His 138 at Lord's followed a 79 against Afghanistan earlier in 2026, demonstrating that the opener can still deliver major performances when he finds his rhythm.
Ultimately, the selectors will need to balance experience with fitness, consistency and India's emerging batting options.
Rahane understands the uncertainty that can surround senior players, but his message to India's current veterans is straightforward: if the team wants Rohit and Kohli involved in the 2027 World Cup, providing them with clear backing could allow them to focus on what they have done throughout their careers — winning matches for India.
